Hey,
What the hell is going on? The weather is warming. New biker TV series are starting. Action is hot and heavy on every front. Bottom line everyone is hoping for a financial uptick or five. I refer to dancing in the streets–we need a shot in the arm.
Big news is headed down the pike at break-neck speeds. I want it to be very good news, outstanding news and stimulating news. Let’s knock one out of the ballpark.
The Bikernet Weekly news is sponsored in part by Cycle Source Magazine, Iron Trader, Las Vegas Bikefest, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum, Born to Ride.com, Choppertown and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.
DAV SUPPORTING VETS IN NEW ORLEANS– DAV has been on the ground in New Orleans helping veterans who suffered the loss of their home, transportation, shelter and food as a result of the tornadoes that devastated the city.
Because of kind-hearted people just like you, we raised $10,455.52 to help veterans suffering from natural disasters. If you’d like to make a donation to DAV’s Disaster Relief Fund, it’s not too late.
JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK– JIMS No. 756 Oxygen Sensor Socket
When removing or installing oxygen sensors on modern Harley-Davidson exhaust systems, it is often necessary for a special socket with a cutout to clear the wiring. JIMS offers many different tools for various sizes and locations of oxygen sensors.
JIMS No. 756 is for newer four wire, heated oxygen sensors with a 12mm thread. It is a 3/8” drive deep socket with an elongated cutout to protect the wiring. Featuring JIMS lifetime tool warranty and Made in the USA, JIMS No. 756 retails for $57.40.
For use on all 4 wire, heated oxygen sensors found on 2010-present Touring, 2012-present Dyna & Softail, and 2014-present Sportsters.
SOUTH CAROLINA AUTOCYCLE BILL– We just returned from a productive day at our state house and wanted to share the news with everyone especially on the Autocycle bill.
We had noticed that there was some mention of changing a current definition of “three wheel vehicle” to “auto cycle” in a bill. It appeared it may be up for a subcommittee hearing this morning so the normal crew showed up. It did not go to subcommittee but we did have a chance to talk with a local lobbyist that is under contract with Polaris.
We sat down in the chairman’s office and helped explain why we would like them to be Autocycles and make sure they are registered as anything other than a motorcycle and that the operator licenses requirement should not be a motorcycle license.
It looks like they are on the same page and want to make sure that other states are aware in the event someone may be running around your state house for Polaris.
We also had a bill sponsored by the chairman and introduced today to allow a motorcycle safety class to be used to remove four points and also in the same bill a requirement that after three attempts to pass the DMV skills test a person must take a motorcycle safety class. I have attached both bills in PDF if anyone s interested.
I know Dennis can echo my statement that it has been a busy day,
–Ralph Bell
MRF South Carolina
FOX Sports and NASCAR Productions Commemorate Jeff Gordon’s First
Daytona 500 Victory in Original Documentary–
In advance of the 59th annual Daytona 500, FOX Sports and NASCAR Productions have teamed up to deliver a rare behind-the-scenes look at four-time champion Jeff Gordon’s first win in the “Great American Race” with an original film entitled “Refuse to Lose.” On the 20th anniversary of Gordon’s milestone triumph, the documentary takes viewers inside his journey to victory lane using never-before-seen footage of the No. 24 team captured in the 10 days leading up to the event.
Featuring interviews with Gordon and crew chief Ray Evernham, both executive producers on the project, the film premieres on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 10 p.m. ET immediately following FS1’s coverage of the Can-Am Duel at Daytona International Speedway.
“I forgot that Ray had secured a camera crew to document the No. 24 team heading into the 1997 Daytona 500,” Gordon said. “There is footage included in ‘Refuse to Lose’ that even I hadn’t seen before we started this project, and I think it helps paint the picture of why this team led by Ray was so successful – especially from 1995 to 1999.”
“After winning 10 races in 1996 but missing out on winning the championship, I felt like I needed to do something to boost morale in the No. 24 shop. That’s why we brought in the camera crew,” Evernham said. “‘Refuse to Lose’ will give viewers an extremely unique, behind-the-scenes look at the championship Rainbow Warrior team.”
FOX Sports and NASCAR Productions partnered for two additional Daytona 500-themed originals heading into this year’s season opener, including “Miracle at Daytona – The Tiny Lund Story,” part of season two in the acclaimed “Beyond the Wheel” series.
The short film is narrated by actor Luke Wilson, who served as the Official Pace Car Driver at last season’s Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Sonoma Raceway. Premiering tonight at 6 p.m. ET during “NASCAR Race Hub” on FS1, the film recounts how DeWayne “Tiny” Lund risked his life to rescue a fellow driver from his burning Maserati before going on to win the 1963 Daytona 500 just five days later. The complete “Beyond the Wheel” series will air Friday, Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. ET.
Fans can also tune-in for “NASCAR Race Classic: The 1997 Daytona 500,” a condensed version of the race broadcast hosted by Dale Earnhardt Jr. airing immediately following “Refuse to Lose” on Feb. 23.
The 2017 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series season kicks off with the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway live on FOX at 2 p.m. ET on Feb. 26. Great seats are available at NASCAR.com/tickets.
AUTHORITIES SEARCHING for organizer of Nashville Bike Week–NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – Concerned customers have been reaching out to the Humphreys County sheriff about money they paid to attend Nashville Bike Week in September.
The 10-day motorcycle festival is supposed to include 101 bands on four stages, daily stunt shows and some of the best motorcycle riding in the country, according to a post on the event’s Facebook page.
The event was supposed to be held at Loretta Lynn’s ranch in Humphreys County, but the ranch posted to its website that the event would not be held on the property.
According to the event’s Facebook page, the venue will be announced Friday.
However, the sheriff of Humphreys County told News 2 there were red flags about the event for a while because details of crowd size and security were not being answered.
Now, ticket holders are contacting the sheriff to ask if the event is actually a scam.
“It very well may happen, and if it does, that is good for our community,” Sheriff Chris Davis said. “But we are still collecting people’s information in case there is an issue later.”
News 2 investigated the organizer Mike Axle, whose real name is Michael Lewis Leffingwell.
Leffingwell has a lengthy criminal history with multiple convictions for fraud and theft, including a federal conviction in Missouri.
In the federal case, Leffingwell was sentenced to three years in prison for taking money from companies he promised to promote products for at Nascar events. He took the money, but did not do the promotion.
In addition to prison time, he was ordered to pay $249,000 in restitution.
In July 2014, the Better Business Bureau issued a consumer warning about his concrete business “Got Concrete.”
According to the warning, two customers lodged complaints that said the business collected $6,700 in payments, but never completed the work.
News 2 learned authorities have active arrest warrants for Leffingwell for probation violations in Georgia and Missouri. He also has an active warrant in Maury County.
Anyone with information on Leffingwell’s whereabouts is urged to call their local authorities or the Humphreys County sheriff at 931-296-2301.
News 2 was able to reach someone at Leffingwell’s email address who said Nashville Bike Week is still going to go on as planned.
The person explained the Tennessee Department of Health inspected the Loretta Lynn ranch and found the number of people expected at the event would not meet requirements set forth in Tennessee Mass Gathering law.
The person, presumably Leffingwell, forwarded News 2 a voicemail he said is from the Tennessee Department of Health that states a health department employee inspected the area where Nashville Bike Week would take place and that it would not accommodate enough people to be in compliance with the Mass Gathering Law.
The Department of Health verified the voicemail and said they told Leffingwell if he did not change venue he would not be able to sell more than 5,000 tickets to the event.
In addition to that, they also told him if he continued to sell more tickets before securing a bigger venue he could be charged with a Class E felony.
When asked about the active warrants, Leffingwell wrote, “I’ll be taking care of those – that has nothing to do with Nashville Bike week and I’m not the only promoter of Nashville Bike Week. Nashville Bike Week is owned by a lot of people.”
He also stated that all the financial obligations the organization has had to meet are in good standing.
“I’ve never had no control of the bank – my name is not even on the bank account – that’s the weather people in the corporation that handle all that,” he wrote. “All of our bills are paid. We don’t owe nobody nothing. All the bands stages, everything, is paid Stunt Shows Wall the event is still going on.”
He continued, “Let’s talk about the good things of Nashville Bike Week – money on toys already donated. Over 20 different charities tax revenue coming in to [sic] the state. I don’t know why we don’t discuss that.”
The Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office has created an email address for concerned customers to email them their information. Customers call also call 931-296-2301.
Nashville Bike Week’s Facebook page is still active and the administrators were responding to comments on the page as of Thursday afternoon.
–By Joseph Pleasant
WKRN NEWS
–from Rogue
AMA ALERT, Federal trade agency holding motorcyclists hostage– Sign the AMA petition: Deadline March 7!
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is embroiled in a dispute with the European Union over U.S. beef that contains hormones. So, instead of working out a solution based on agricultural products, the Trade Representative included motorcycles in its proposed 100 percent tariffs on some products imported from the Europe.
The tariff would affect motorcycles with an engine size between 51cc and 500cc.
A member of the USTR staff stated in a Feb. 15 public hearing that the USTR hopes to use motorcyclists as leverage to get the E.U. to reverse its policy on U.S. beef.
The American Motorcyclist Association opposes the proposed tariff, because trade disputes residing within the boundaries of the agricultural industry should not be solved with trade sanctions levied against non-agricultural products. And this tariff would harm American consumers by raising prices and reducing product choice.
The USTR is accepting rebuttals to the Feb. 15 testimony. This provides an opportunity for the public to voice its opinion on the proposed Bikes for Beef tax. And the AMA has the tools to make it easy for you to submit comments. Just sign our petition.
Act now by signing the AMA’s petition to voice your concern. The deadline is March 7.
The AMA will submit every name and address to the USTR. There is nothing more powerful than tens of thousands of riders joining together to express their concern with the Bikes for Beef tax.
Now more than ever, it is crucial that you and your riding friends become members of the AMA to help protect our riding freedoms. More members mean more clout against the opponents of motorcycling. That support will help fight for your rights – on the road, trail, racetrack, and in the halls of government. If you are a motorcycle rider, join the AMA at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/membership/join.
Wanted a locking engine oil cap for ROYAL ENFIELD THUNDERBIRD 350 in India. Any suggestions
— Amanda kumar
amankumar564@gmail.com
We reached out to Keith at Secure Caps. Hang on for more news.—Bandit Ball
BIKERNET TRIKES EDITOR SEEKS ENLIGHTENMENT–
For some good road pictures, I have pasted the 5-Ball Racing skull logo on my leather vest. We just call it 5-Ball leather.
Going to legendary abode of Lord Shiva at Trimbak mountains, in India, where some of the biggest saints achieved enlightenment. Back tomorrow.
Tonight MIDNIGHT is Mahashivratri literally meaning The Great Night Of Shiva. Either I get blessed or destroyed. No gray area.
–Ujjwal Dey
www.BikernetTrikes.com
FAMOUS HAMSTER DOWN– We have lost another one of our Hamster family. Don Wills passed away on Friday, February 17th. His funeral will be on Wednesday the 22nd at Walker Funeral Home in Shawnee, Oklahoma at 2:30 pm. Don was a Hamster for many, many years and I believe he was one of our oldest members.
Don had a lot of passion and love for the Hamsters and for his family. Please keep Judy Wills and their family in your prayers during this very sad time. Don loved telling his stories of riding adventures, and of their children and grandchildren. Rest in Peace Don, till we meet again.
–Hamster Brothers and Sisters Everywhere
THE EVIL MISSION FROM THE MOUNTAIN– The coordination rule is very important, because it was mandated that the EPA must “coordinate” with any local government agencies, committees, etc. on any rule making that effected stakeholders, culture, environment and economy.
To date, I’m unaware of any city or municipality in California that was consulted with and asked to coordinate with the EPA, CARB or anyone on rules effecting the small trucking industry.
That’s just a tip of the iceberg. The EPA is running ram shod over the country and it appears to be toward the goal of fulfilling the U. N. Security Council’s goal of destroying independent nations a
nd sovereignty in lieu of a One World Order. This is in direct step with the communist theory of using global environmental crisis scares as a way of destroying free enterprise and replacing it with socialism and a central world government.
–Pan
Tony Pan Sanfelipo
Investigator
Hupy and Abraham, S.C.
1-800-800-5678
FRANKIE’S AGAPE DYNA— My grandson Frankie and my son Frank both work at AGAPE tattoo in Newport Beach, California. Frankie wrecked his 2005 Dyna and we pondered his options.
We discussed a new Dyna frame from Paughco, or welding new fender struts and a better seat pan in place, but ultimately he decided to take it to Dr. John in Anaheim, California for the easiest, least time-consuming effort. Dr. John will have it ready in 10 days. We were able to haul it to the doctor with the driveline in place, with the forks and front and rear wheels.
We could actually roll it into the back of his pickup. Watch for a series of articles as we put his freeway hotrod back together.
–Bandit Ball
TRIUMPH CLASSIC MOTORCYCLES Makes Front Cover of Motorcycle Classics Magazine!– The Chief Editor of Motorcycle Classics Magazine Richard Backus, personally flew out to visit us, rode our motorcycles and wrote a wonderful article which hits the news stands today!
www.triclassic.com
Upcoming Motorcycle Events:
….
Sunday, 2/26 – Southern California Norton Owners Club – Ojai Pilgrimage Back Roads Ride, Visit: http://socalnorton.com/wp/calendar/
Saturday, 3/4 – The Southern California Section Vincent – HRD Owners Club, Monthly Meeting (1:00pm – 4:00pm) Located at Beverly Hills Ducati
SADDLEMEN PART OF THE WEEK ROAD SOFA GEL—
This Changes Everything.
Saddlemen’s new Roadsofa-LS combines leading edge styling with comfort enhancing Gel-Core technology for a truly unique seat that looks and feels perfect. Offerings include optional drivers backrest and Tour-Pak®cover.
*Made in the USA. Available for most Harley-Davidson® Touring models
Change Your Ride Today
Shock and Vibration are the real world forces acting on your body that cause rider discomfort and fatigue. Take a moment and think about your last ride and ask yourself – Are rough roads and constant vibration cheating me out of the ride I deserve? If the answer is yes, you owe it to yourself to read on and learn more about what Gel-Core Technology can do for you.
Saddlemen’s GelCore Technology
Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Understanding the forces acting on your body while riding is critical to understanding why homogenous polyurethane foam seats developed in the late 1940’s and probably on your motorcycle right now are preventing the extended ride times you desire. Saddlemen uses science to change everything by offering the RoadSofa line of seats featuring our unique manufacturing process known as Gel-Core Technology.
SPECTRO OILS COMES BACK TO BIKERNET— Spectro is also going to Sponsor our Bonneville effort. But we have another mission. I want to produce a series of articles to help all of us make accurate oil-buying decisions. Feel free to chime in with suggestions.
“My suggestion includes starting with a short 101 on Engine Oil and the importance it plays in protecting wear and tear,” said Joe Russo, from Spectro. “We can tie that into your grandson’s engine, which and how oil keeps all these parts from wearing out at high temp and high friction scenarios, additives, etc. We can touch base on Premium, Semi and Full Synthetic but focus on why we choose full POA 20w50 Synthetic for the best protection available.”
Their Premier Product HD Platinum 20w50 Full Synthetic Engine Oil Platinum Engine Oil, which is the best option.
–Bandit
BIKERNET CERTIFIED COPY EDITOR RUNS MARATHON–
Here’s how I spent Sunday morning, running a half marathon (13.1 miles) in Fort Lauderdale. Wish it had been about 10 degrees cooler, but I still finished 23 out of 47 in the men’s 65-69-year-old age group.
–Bruce S. Snyder
LATEST FROM BRASS BALLS– The ultimate foot pegs for admirers of fire arms!
The Brass Balls Cycles Muzzle Brake Pegs. Designed for those who admire fire arms.
Our pegs are inspired by the cool design of muzzle brakes, with the inclusion of essential serrated grip on top to keep you firmly connected to your bike.
Precision machined from aircraft grade 6061 T6 billet aluminum. Included with adjustable chrome plated steel clevis. They are light weight and very strong. The Brass Balls logo is machined on the underside.
Measurements: 4.06″ L x 1.38″ W x 1.14″ T
Finishes: Available in Hard Black anodize and Machined aluminum finish
Fitment: All HD® models
Includes 2 pegs, 2 HD® Male Clevis, 2 socket head cap bolts
$129.95 MSRP
Order direct from our site http://store.BrassBallsCycles.com or from our awesome dealers.
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LATEST FILM OF THE WEEK– We are excited to announce another film being added to Dream Racer/Television, SHEER WILL.
After Motorcycles and Boxing, we are now moving into Mountaineering. Sheer Will is an older film that never really got the chance to be seen by audiences outside of Australia.
It is the story of Michael Groom, a mountaineering that set himself the goal of climbing the five tallest mountains without oxygen support. A feat that only a few have been able to achieve.
On the second summit, he suffered frost bites to both of his feet, resulting in an amputations of all of his toes.
Michael spent several years recovering and re-learning how to walk. He then went back to his goal of climbing the five tallest summits in the world including Everest.
Michael has been close to tragedy many times, including the disastrous 1996 Everest attempt in which, of those who summitted, only he and one other survived – nine other perished.
Although filmed in an older style footage, the story is amazing, and the will to continue despite all odds is inspiring. Sheer Will fits perfectly the types of film we are wanting to add to Dream Racer Television – stories of ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things and inspiring others to achieve their own dreams.
Stay tuned for our next email that will provide an opportunity to receive your “Sheer Will Discount Launch.”
Dream Racer/Television
“It’s at the edge of who you are, that you learn who you can be”
5-BALL RACING LEATHERS— Special Ops Jacket with unzip-able sleeves. Then it becomes a vest quick. This is our bells and whistles jacket with all the pockets anyone could imagine.
We are making one change and taking the zippers out of the external side pockets, where you slip your hands. The zippers don’t work for me, so out they come.
BUFFALO MOTORAMA– Meet Twiggy from Vegas Rat Rods, Wayne Carini from Chasing Classic Cars, and see the hottest custom car and bike show this side of WNY. Only 1 month away until the 2017 Buffalo Motorama!
On March 24-26, 2017 the Buffalo Convention Center in Buffalo, NY will host the BIGGEST and BEST indoor custom car and bike show in Western New York.
2017 marks our 7th year showcasing some of the best vehicles from across the country, vendors, and something for the entire family to enjoy.
Your Vote Counts!
Be entered to WIN show tickets! VOTE for the Best of WNY. Place your vote for the Best Car Cruise, Best Detailer, Best Pinstriper,
Best Dealer, Best Race Team. The Best in WNY. You help pick the winner.
All votes entered will be entered to win Buffalo Motorama tickets.
Best of WNY Winners announced at the 2017 Buffalo Motorama
— Click here to vote for the Best of WNY —
Visit our website: www.BuffaloMotorama.com
Like our Facebook page to be eligible for prizes and contests: www.facebook.com/buffalomotorama
Contact Joe at show@buffalomotorama.com or 716-390-6848 for more information.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA Vintage bikes get back to the beach– THOUSANDS of motorcycle fans turned out to watch vintage bike racing return to the beach for the first time in more than 60 years in South Australia.
The Sellicks Beach event, organized by the Levis Motorcycle Club, attracted 4000 spectators and 105 racing bikes over two days on the weekend.
“Everybody had a ball – the riders are all keen to come back and the spectators were just ecstatic with it all,” the Adelaide-based club’s publicity officer Peter Hennekam said of the February 18-19 event.
The field of 105 motorcycles manufactured before 1963 raced across five classes – under 125cc through to 501cc – 1300cc. Sidecar races will also be held.
The club, the oldest motorcycle club in South Australia, began beach racing in the 1920s and held annual Sellicks Beach Speed Trials in summer through to 1953.
Re-enactments were held in 1986 and 1992 but regular races had not taken place on the beach for more than 60 years.
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To read the entire story, see the photo gallery and use all of it royalty-free in your publication simply click http://bit.ly/2kUl9dx
This is a Creative Commons story from The Lead South Australia, a news service providing stories about innovation in South Australia. Please feel free to use the story in any form of media. The story sources are linked in with the copy and all contacts are willing to talk further about the story.
–Jim Plouffe, Publishing Editor
With eight events spread across six US cities and one in Canada (Montreal July 14-15) these Thursday practice sessions at Irwindale will be about the only chance for many of the pro teams to check their gear between races.
There’ll be nine of these practice events at Irwindale beginning this Thursday night, February 23 that will provide a great way to tune up, test new machines, try out new gear, and new driving techniques for the very competitive 2017 season which, in turn, provides a unique opportunity for West Coast Formula Drift fans to see the preps up close and personal at the place that’s known across the Universe as: “The House of Drift”…
Starting this Thursday, the special sessions will run all the way to Thursday October 12, 2017 the day before the final race of the 2017 Formula Drift season at Irwindale.
This year’s Thursday night dates are: February 23, March 16 (that’s just two weeks before the Formula D event at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach and should be an “all hands on deck” night for competitors and fans alike at Irwindale) followed by events on April 20, May 25, June 22, July 27, August 24, and October 5 (OK … check this: THAT’s only two weeks in front of the final 2017 “Title Fight” FD show right back at Irwindale on October 13-14 … that’s “must see sideways” for sure!).
As mentioned above, the Thursday night practices will conclude on Thursday, October 12 the night before Irwindale becomes the world focal point of Drifting for the weekend.
All of the track’s trick Thursday night events feature open pits and a great opportunity for fans to meet the drivers, crews, suppliers, journalists and FD officials up close and personal and under (only slightly) more “relaxed” conditions than at the racing events themselves.
Fans new and old really enjoy the true “insider” aspect of these nights when the top pro teams attack Irwindale’s legendary high banks and tricky inner circuit with motors screaming and tires smoking. Seating in the grandstand is open, vantage points are plentiful, and surprises are always the name of the game.
Gates for all of the above Thursday Night Formula Drift test and tune sessions at Irwindale Event Center will open at 4PM with tech inspection running from 4 to 8PM and drift practice on the track and sliding sideways from 5PM to 9PM.
Spectator admission: $10 – Parking: FREE
Drift practice: $75 per car
IRWINDALE EVENT CENTER, 500 Speedway Drive, 500 SPEEDWAY DRIVE, Irwindale, CA 91706
I’m a retired Marine, made it through Vietnam without a scratch. On the 23 of Nov 2016 I was told by my Dr that my right leg had to be removed above the knee. I have been riding Harley’s as long as I can remember. Can anyone out there give me some suggestions on the best way to set my bike up for handicap riding? I have a 2012 Harley Ultra Classic. I’m not ready to stop riding, I don’t have a lot of money.
— Paul Burroughs
pbe9mcret@aol.com
Tifton, GA
S&S PERFORMANCE PRODUCT OF THE WEEK— Super E Carburetor Kit for 1984-’92 Big Twin and 1986-’90 H-D Sportster Models
Partial Super E carburetor kits do not include manifolds and are designed for the individual who purchases an S&S engine kit, which includes a manifold, or owns a bike that is presently equipped with a 1-7/8 inch S&S Super B carb and wishes to upgrade to an S&S Super E. If you need a carb for a bike with cylinders that are longer or shorter than stock, order the carb kit without the manifold, and order the correct manifold separately.
Fits 1984-’92 Harley-Davidson big twin and 1986-’90 Sportster models.
The All-American Tattoo Convention Gives Back to Military– 3-Day event to bring national talent to Cumberland County, NC
The Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (FACVB) welcomes The All American Tattoo Convention to the Crown Complex Friday, April 14 – Sunday, April 16, 2017. The goal of the convention is to give the brave servicemen and women of the armed forces the opportunity to be tattooed by some of the industry’s brightest stars as well as providing support to the military through donations to several organizations. Home of Fort Bragg, the largest military base in the country, Cumberland County is the ideal location to host one of the South’s most popular tattoo conventions.
Members of the armed forces and tattoos have a long history, which dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. For many service members tattoos can serve as artistic reminders of friends they’ve made and lost along the way, or a symbol of pride for their service to our country. These tattoos often tell the story that words fail to express for these veterans and servicemen.
It is estimated that over 75% of all active duty soldiers have at least one tattoo and the region around Fort Bragg has one of the largest tattoo shop per square mile ratios in the country. “This convention is another example of how Cumberland County celebrates its strong ties to the military,” explains John Meroski, FACVB President. “Tattoos offer these brave men and woman a unique form of expression that is American at its core.”
In addition to some of Cumberland County’s brightest tattoo stars, other notable artists are traveling across the country to participate in the convention. Talent includes veteran tattoo artists Peter Justice, Chris Saint Clark, Dave Clarke & Chris Blinston as well as some of the world’s most sought after tattoo artists, Kristel Oreto, Carl Grace, Pete Terranova & Marshall Bennett. Big Gus & Jasmine Rodriguez from Spike TV’s Tattoo Nightmares; Joey Tattoo from Spike TV’s Tattoo Rescue and James Vaughn, Madison Loftis and TJ Hal from Ink Master are just a few of the other tattoo artists coming to the area. Additional events and personalities include the Half Pint Brawlers, The New Olde City SideShow, Burlesque & Pin-Up show, Fayetteville Rouge Rollergirls and EmCee Dr. Carl Blasphemy.
The All American Tattoo Convention wants to recognize the sacrifices of the military by giving back to this courageous community. “The All American Tattoo Convention is currently working closely with Operation Tattooing Freedom, a non profit organization that helps veterans with PTSD.” says Ryan Harrell who is a native of Fayetteville NC. “Even though we are already working with nonprofits we are still looking for organizations to help.
We want to help as many of our service members as possible. If you would like to submit your veteran or military service member non profit organization for donations please email your proposal to allamericantattooconvention@gmail.com.”
For additional information about America’s First Military Sanctuary Community, visit www.visitfayettevillenc.com or call 1-800-255-8217
–MELINDA JACKSON
THE KARA TURNER BLUES BAND COMES TO LONG BEACH– Southern California’s Premier Rock’n’ Blues Band!!
Appearing Thursday, March 2nd,
in a big Pre-Saint Patrick’s Day celebration,
at Shenanigans Irish Pub & Grille
in Long Beach from 7:00 pm ’til 11:00 pm!!!
This will be an especially cool show for Kara and her all-star group of SoCal’s most elite musicians. Not only will the amazing Michael Leasure (from the Walter Trout Band), be
sitting in on drums but the KTB will once again be featuring the legendary Joe Campbell on guitar!
Please join the incredible Kara Turner for an
evening of great fun, food, drinks and music!
SHENANIGANS IRISH PUB & GRILLE
423 Shoreline Village Drive, Suite A
Long Beach 90802
(562) 437-3734
www.shenaniganslb.com
Thursday, March 2nd
7:00 pm ’til 11:00 pm
NOMINATIONS SOUGHT– Coalition for Recreation Trails 2017 Achievement Awards
April 13 deadline will be here before you know it
The Coalition for Recreational Trails will present its annual awards recognizing exceptional trail projects funded by the Recreational Trails Program in Washington, D.C., on June 14 during Great Outdoors Month.
The 25-year-old RTP routes gas taxes paid by off-highway-vehicle users to the trails where that fuel is actually used. Spreading those funds over both motorized and non-motorized trails has been central to the long-term political success of the program.
To help ensure the ongoing viability of the RTP, we hope that everyone who submits a nomination will seek an additional endorsement from the member of Congress representing the project’s district. As successful as the RTP has been, it’s important that our federal elected officials are regularly reminded how important the program is to creating and maintaining the trails we love for exercise and the enjoyment of the great outdoors.
To identify and contact the appropriate member of Congress, enter the project location’s ZIP code under “Find Your Elected Officials” here. The nomination form includes model wording to help you make that request of the appropriate elected official.
RTP-funded projects completed between 2009 and 2016 are eligible for this year’s awards. They can be found online here in the Recreational Trails Program database and can be nominated for awards in the following categories:
Maintenance & Rehabilitation
Construction & Design
Public-Private Partnerships and Access to/Use of Public Lands
Community Linkage
Education and Communication
Multiple-Use Management & Corridor Sharing
Accessibility Enhancement
Youth Conservation/Service Corps and Community Outreach
Engaging Public Sector Partners
Enhancement of Public Lands – A new category this year
When: The deadline for project nominations is April 13.
To submit a nomination: The nomination form is available here CRT_RTP_2017 Nomination Form Final.doc. Submit completed forms by email to coalitionforrectrails@gmail.com. Winners will be notified by May 12.
For more information: Email grassroots@amacycle.org
Now more than ever, it is crucial that you and your riding friends become members of the AMA to help us protect our riding freedoms. More members mean more clout against the opponents of motorcycling, and your support will help the AMA fight for your rights – on the road, trail and racetrack and in the halls of government. To join, go to http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/For-Members/Join-The-AMA. To encourage your friends to join, tell them about the many AMA benefits you appreciate and forward the link to them.
If you do submit a nomination, we would appreciate your forwarding a copy to grassroots@amacycle.org.
Please, if you don’t have a ticket, get on the waiting list. Mr. Bill is doing a great job of finding seats. Email or call him at: mrbill@vleinc.com, (818) 896 2200.
NEWSLETTER
You won’t get a newsletter unless we have your correct email address. Those of you who bought tables, could you ask your guests to supply their email address if they want the newsletter. They can call or email: mctrailblazers01@gmail.com, (909) 226 6038 or (951) 780 1978. If you add our email address (mctrailblazers01@gmail.com) to your address book it may prevent the newsletter from going to spam or not going through at all. Because so many are sent at once, your service thinks it is bulk mail advertising.
PROGRAM ADS
Contact Don Emde if you wish to have an ad in the program. Ad space is available until March 1st. donemde@me.com or (949) 632 4668
DOUBLETREE HOTEL
If you wish to take advantage of our group rate, you must make your reservation before March 23rd through the DoubleTree (310) 830 9200 or 1-800-HILTONS. Our group code is TrailBlazers Motorcycle Club. The rate is $139.00 per night.
67TH ANNUAL MOOSE RUN FEBRUARY 26TH
The Four Aces is putting on this AMA, District 37 event at Spangler Hill OHV – Teagle Wash off Trona Road. Get more information at their website: www.fouracesmc.org or Ken Baez (951) 369 1814 or Rick Elmore (951) 532 009
DON’T FORGET THEIR MINI MOOSE RUN. The 3rd Annual will be on Saturday, February 25th. Round 1 of the District 37 Youth Desert Series.
INDUCTEES INTO MOTOGP LEGENDS
Kenny Roberts Jr, 2000 World 500cc Champion and Marco Lucchinelli, 1981 500cc Champion, will be inducted into the MOTO GP LEGENDS in 2 different ceremonies. A very prestigious honor and well deserved by both of them.
CASTLE ROCK
Skip sent a photo (attached) of Castle Rock
20 YEARS OF FOUR-STROKES
Read Larry Lawrence article in issue 5 of Cycle News. Another good story and you can read it for free at cyclenews.com.
SAN JOSE PRO INDOOR SHORT TRACK RACES
SATURDAY NIGHT, APRIL 8, 2017
Put this one on your calendar for sure. It will be held at the Santa Clara Fairgrounds EXpo Hall 344 Tully Road, San Jose. A flyer is attached and you can find more information at www.sanjoseindoor.com (408) 249 4336. Open practice on Friday. No youth or novice races. You can find a class. There will be Premier Pros, 250 Pros, Vintage, Brakeless, Electric, Legends, Run What you Brung, 230 Amateur (Non-Pro), 150 (Air-cooled) and Knobby. They are looking for sponsors to sweeten the purse. Program ads generate the Pro Purse too.
ARIZONA MILE AT TURF PARADISE
SATURDAY, MAY 13th
The AMA Pro Flat Track race, presented by Buddy Stubbs Harley Davidson, will be on Saturday, May 13th. Besides great racing, it will be a full day of events. Music, historic bike show, vendors, autographs. Tickets at www.arizonamile.com (602) 730 0778.
HERE ARE A COUPLE MORE FOR YOUR CALENDAR
EDDIE MULDERS LAKE CACHUMA BRITISH BIKE RALLY JUNE 2-5
Vintage British bike enthusiasts and their families invited for pure old-fashioned camping fun with old-fashioned machines. The Grand Marshall will be Bill Getty. Be there for Dinner on Friday night at the Live Oak Campground, south of Cachuma Lake 18 miles N. of Santa Barbara off Hwy 154 in California. 400 Oak trees, clean restrooms and hot showers. For more info: (661) 944 118, enjmulder@gmail.com, www.eddiemulderswcvdts.com and Facebook: @cachuma Lake Vintage Motorcycle Rally. $195.00 per person, kids prices Pre-registration deadline is May 14th.
BIKES AND BURGERS
Sunday, June 4th from 10am to 3pm
Tom and Dani White are again opening their Early Years of MotoCross museum and property to benefit High Hopes, a center for people with traumatic brain damage. If you haven’t been to the museum, it is a must see. If you have, it is a must see again. www.highhopes.ws
SAN DIEGO AREA FIRES DESTROY SHOP, CLUBHOUSE AND BIKES
The Moto Forza dealership in Escondido was destroyed by fire Saturday night, February 11th. http://www.rfoxnews.com/auto/2017/02/13/fire-destroys-hundreds-motorcycles-at-dealership.html
On Monday, February 13 the Boozefighters Motorcycle Club House in San Diego
was destroyed by fire. The Boozefighters have been around since 1946. They distribute bicycles to needy children at Christmas. They had also collected things for their raffle to support the distribution. http://www.nbcsandiego.com/on-air/as-seen-on/chris02136am_San-Diego-413587183.html
A bit suspicious! Two motorcycle shops burn a day apart.
CYCLE NEWS COVER
Attached. Sent by Tony Kretz Photo was taken at the 1972 Laugh In Trials at Saddleback Park
50 YEARS AGO IN CYCLE NEWS
Steve McLaughlin, Dave Damron and Walt Fulton at Carlsbad made the cover. Other competitors were Bill Manley, Gene Romero, Eddie Wirth ad Dave Smith. 300 Yamaha dealers met in Vegas to see 7 new models. Indoor short track racing in Long Beach.
40 YEARS AGO
30 YEARS AGO
Jeff Ward leading in Supercross series at the Astrodome. Garth Brown won AMA Indoor Pro Ice Race in Troy Ohio. Dan Smith/Larry Roeseler won the SCORE Parker 400. Helmet law was topic. Jeff Ward won at Anaheim
HARLEY SPEAKS AND AN INTERVIEW WITH GIOVANNI CASTIGLIONI
Both are lengthy articles in Issue 6 of Cycle News. Well worth the read. Harley Speaks covers the past and future of Harley racing and the Indian invasion. Giovanni, 36, is the President/CEO of MV Agusta. He recently sold off 35% and explains his moves. He has been working hard to turn the company around since taking the reins when his father died in 2011. Remember, read the whole article free at www.cyclenews.com. The Archives, in the same issue, is about the 1988 Grand Prix racing season.
MOVIE CLIPS FROM THE ONE MOTORCYCLE SHOW
PORTLAND OREGON, 2017
Sent by Doug Towsley
The show was this past weekend. Doug forwarded this from Mike Tyler and Dave Friesen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFIGX1a21KU https://www.icoud.com/sharedalbum/#BobGgZLKuJJ9e0g http://the1moto.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theOneMotorcycleShow/?fref=ts&ref=br_tf
LOOKING FOR A VINTAGE BIKE
Sent by Doug Towsley
A local guy (Oregon) has some vintage bikes and is looking for a decent, to very nice example for his collection. He would like a Featherbed framed Norton single, Norton ES2, but International if the right deal comes along. No Manx,,,Not looking for a project. He is realistic on prices so, will consider any and all that are out there. Would prefer something west coast USA, but will look at all options including overseas. Any leads appreciated. Might even be a finders fee. lmcguire@ccgmail.net
SUPER HOLLIGAN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Roland Sands Designs is behind this series that features street bikes flat track racing on dirt and concrete. Most of the series is run in conjunction with another event. The third in the series will be March 25th in Woodstock, Georgia. The 4th is April 22 at the Hippy Killer Hoedown in Perris. The prize for winning the series is a FTR 750 Factory Indian Scout, GNC race ready. Check them out on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vol5bmSxFoE www.rolandsands.com
FIRST AMERICAN FLAT TRACK RACE OF 2017
THURSDAY, MARCH 16
American Flat Track, formerly AMA Pro Flat Track, will begin the series at Bike Week in Daytona Beach, Florida, on a new .6 mile TT Track designed by Chris Carr. The lighted track is inside Daytona International Speedway. A week later, on Saturday, March 25, is the Georgia Short Track at Dixie Speedway in Woodstock, Georgia. www.amaproracing.com/flat-track, Twitter or Facebook.
76TH ANNUAL DAYTONA SPEED WEEK
MARCH 10 – 19
The SuperCross is on March 11th followed by the Amateur SuperCross on March 12th and ATV Supercross on the 14th. The Daytona 200 will be on Saturday, March 18. Lots more going on and the Midway is open from the 10th to the 18th. FansChoice.tv is the official home for live streaming coverage of American Flat Track events. Tickets available at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or 1-800-PITSTOP
SCFTA AT PERRIS
Round 1 was postponed because of rain. It will be rescheduled. The February practice date TBA. Round 2 will be on Saturday, March 11th. Gate opens at 12:30, practice 3:30, followed by racing. Practice on March 25 2-7pm. http://www.southerncaliforniaflattrack.com 951 443 76 22 socalflattrack@aol.com
CFTA WINTER INDOOR SERIES
Friday practice on March 31st. The next race, Round 5 is scheduled for Saturday, April 1st. info@californiaflattrack.com (415) 320 7889 www.californiaflattrack.com
Chowchilla Fairgrounds, Chowchilla, CA
SOCAL OLD TIMERS MOTOCROSS
From beginners to masters. Need to be over 40 to join. the oldest is 83. The friendly bunch. Their next race is Sunday, February 26 at Comp Edge, Hillside in Hesperia followed by Milestone Vet in Riverside on Sunday, March 12. socalotmx.org
SOCAL NORTON RIDES
Sunday, February 26th is the Ojai Pilgrimage. Back road to Ojai. Meet at Cactus Patch Cafe located at 197 E. High Street in Moorpark. Ride departs at 10am sharp.
It is off to Death Valley on Saturday March 25th and returning on Monday, March 27th. Three day event. Meet on Saturday morning at Crazy Otto’s, located at 1228 W. Avenue I in Lancaster. Ride departs at 9am sharp. The Atomic Inn in Beatty, Nevada is the club headquarters and hotel of choice where we will be staying Saturday & Sunday night, however, feel free to stay anywhere you like in the area. Ride maps will be posted here soon, so check back.
If you are not a SoCal Norton club member, please contact them before going on a ride in case it is a member only ride. http://socalnorton.com
BSAOCSC
Sunday, March 19 “Al Baker Dual Sport” ride. Meet at 9am at the Al Baker Ranch, 16400 Wild Road, Helendale, CA. Ride starts at 10 am and is approximately 90-100 miles. Vintage British motorcycles only, street registration and spark arrestors. (310) 292 8997 (760) 365 9191 or (951) 440-3521.
BSAOCNC CLUBMANS SHOW AND SWAP
Saturday, March 25 enjoy the Clubmans Show & Swap at the San Jose Fairgrounds www.bsaocnc.org
VENTURA RACEWAY
AMA ARENACROSS
Round 12 on April 1-2 in Sacramento, Ca.
AMA/FIM MOTOAMERICA
Round 1 April 20-23 in Austin Texas. MOTOGP round 3 will also be at Austin on April 23rd.
2017 WORCS
Round 4-5 in Lake Havasu, AZ March 10 – 12 and April 1-2, round 6 in Las Vegas Nevada.
D37 BIG 6 GRAND PRIX
March 3 -5, round 3, Glen Helen. April 1 -2, round 4, 29 Palms.
BADLANDS Scott Jacobs’ First Artist Retreat
May 11-15, 2017 in Deadwood, SD
We are excited to begin a new venture where we will inspire and build even closer relationships with you over the four days we’ll spend together in Scott’s Personal Studio!
This extended weekend is packed with nonstop activities. Whether you’re inside Scott’s private studio learning his techniques or exploring the historic town most people only dream of visiting, there is always something to keep you intrigued.
$3,000 Per Student
What’s Included?
– Hotel Stay
– Painting materials
– And mainly bragging rights to your friends 🙂
Thursday
– Shuttle from Rapid City Airport
– Privately catered Welcome Party at Jacobs Gallery
Friday
– First Painting Class with the Master, Scott Jacobs
– In Studio lunch break (food provided)
– Bare Naked Ladies Concert in VIP Seating (snacks, soft drinks, and drink tickets included)
Saturday
– Second day of Painting with Scott
– In Studio lunch break (food provided)
– Private dinner at local Steakhouse
Sunday
– Third day and final day to finish your painting
– Explore Historic Deadwood/Free Time
Monday
Because how many chances do you get to be taught
by a world-famous artist in his private studio?
PETERSEN MUSEUM– Harley vs. Indian,Opening Reception Thursday, March 2, 7pm
Immerse yourself in over 100 years of motorcycle history with the Petersen’s newest exhibition Harley vs. Indian! Be one of the first to experience the exhibit and enjoy music from KCRW’s DJ Anthony Valadez.
During the opening, learn the compelling history of competition and design between the two legendary companies with a live Q&A with Deus’s Creative Director, Nevin Pontious and Moto America’s Founder, Richard Varner. Complimentary light bites, wine and beer will be served. Purchase your tickets for the event today — this event will sell out!
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THE GLOBAL CONCLUSION– No one likes politics and those who don’t talk politics avoid talking religion as well. I have been following the Bikernet.com reports on global warming and various regulations regarding motorcycles. Here is a piece of my penny.
1. “The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.” – Tacitus (born 55 AD, Senator in ancient Roman Empire)
2. How many American citizens drive a custom built motorcycle or hotrod car?
3. Almost 97% of the vehicles on the road all over the world are from major branded automotive companies such as Ford, Toyota, Volvo, Harley-Davidson, Suzuki, Yamaha, etc. They all meet strict regulations and Euro pollution norms. So why target vehicles as the whole source of global warming?
4. Volvo even paid a ridiculous amount of penalty fines for its pollution fiasco in USA. How many cattle farmers and animal meat farmers paid fines for pollution from methane and other bio-fuel caused in animal farming? Forget the fact that farmers use 90% of the water supply in every agricultural state while resident citizens who drive cars or bikes have to suffer water supply cuts and price hikes in water tariff because of the wastage of water in animal farms. Cowspiracy indeed.
5. So the Arctic ice is melting and penguins are drowning and polar bears are sleeping the eternal sleep of death (there are more polar bears than ever before). Blame the average American citizen won’t you? Do you know who is the world’s biggest consumer of petrol, diesel and natural fuels? Yes, the various Military Industrial Complex of all nations of planet Earth. All nations including American Government spends a trillion plus dollar on fuel to run military trucks, fighter jets and test missiles – all for world peace. So taste those apples Mr. Patriot.
Why blame the average hardworking, family feeding, beer drinking citizen for the global climate changes?
SPEAKING OF EPA–
Oklahoma AG Scott Pruitt was approved on Friday with a vote of 52-46 to become the 14th EPA Administrator. Maine R Susan Collins voted against, while Dems Joe Manchin (WV) and Heidi Heitkamp (ND) were for. McCain (who went to Germany) and IN Democrat Joe Donnelly didn’t vote.
Wow…that Donnelly vote is interesting, especially after he said he wouldn’t vote for Pruitt. Below we have a full array of comments from both sides. We expect the swearing in and signing of executive orders tomorrow at Noon.
Our friend Kim Strassel of the Wall Street Journal conducted Pruitt’s first interview which clearly outlines his commitment to refocusing the agency on its statutorily-defined mission: working cooperatively with the states to improve water and air.
He also has made a point of focusing on following the rule of law and Congressional intent saying the previous Administration “displaced Congress, disregarded the law, and in general said they would act in their own way. That now ends.” Enviro reaction was of course WAY over the top. Just check out the response on the social media in response to Pruitt’s new twitter account: @EPAScottPruitt. The comments are definitely NC-17 in some cases.
–Dan Fitzmaurice
Zipper’s Performance Products
6655A Amberton Dr, Elkridge, MD 21075
410-579-2828
www.zippersperformance.com
LAW TIGERS TESTIMONIALS–
“I was showed step by step how the Law Tigers were going to help me with my case. My family and I are very happy with the results working with these motorcycle lawyers. The team addressed my issues quick and helped me win my case.”
Marcus W.
“The Law Tigers were always friendly and professional. they cared about me and were like a true friend throughout the process.”
Lawrence H.
THE SPEED MERCHANT CLAN AND BATTERIES– The Speed Merchant is a team of like minded guys, Brandon Holstein, Dan Begakis, and Mark Kawakami, who each bring something different to the table. The goal is to bring our sense of style and function to the motorcycle industry, while keeping our manufacturing here in California.
Speedcell Always has our back!! This battery was made custom for #theseminal We run their technology in all of our race bikes. If you are looking for the best, give them a follow. #madeinUSA #supporttheindependents #delta2
NEW TOP GEAR TRAILER ANNOUNCES NEW BBC AMERICA PREMIERE DATE
New Season Launches on New Night – Sunday, March 12
Watch Trailer: https://youtu.be/cKApdYfK-c8
NEW DATE AND NIGHT:
Announced today, BBC AMERICA will premiere the new season of Top Gear on a new date and night – Sunday, March 12, at 8/7c followed by after show Extra Gear.
HOSTS:
The car show sees Matt LeBlanc, Chris Harris and Rory Reid at the helm, with appearances from German race ace Sabine Schmitz, F1 pundit Eddie Jordan, and the international man of mystery referred to only as ‘The Stig,’ because that’s his name.
ROAD TRIPS:
In this new seven-part season, Top Gear’s hosts journey across wildest Kazakhstan in cars with half a million miles on the clock, tackle old-school motorsport in Cuba, blast through the US’s wild west in the latest convertible supercars, and attempt to turn an ugly South Korean van into a luxury yacht to rival Monaco’s finest.
VEHICLES:
Matt, Chris and Rory also review the latest and greatest cars from around the globe, from the Ferrari FXX K to the Aston Martin DB11, from the incredible Bugatti Chiron to the new Ford GT. Oh, and an eight-wheeled, all-terrain monster from Russia, because no season is truly complete without an eight-wheeled, all-terrain monster from Russia.
GUESTS:
It’s all brought to you from Top Gear’s famous test track and studio, where a fresh crop of celebrities will attempt to impress with their driving skills. The season premiere features actor James McAvoy as guest.
Download Photos and Gifs: https://amcnetworks.box.com/s/m02w3vi4pz4d6b7xflbq0bwpqhczsq82
SERIES HIGHLIGHTS:
A SUPERCAR FOR ALL SEASONS
Convertible supercars: very glamorous, but only really suitable for those handful of days each year when the sun’s shining and air is balmy-warm. Not so, according to Matt and Chris, who reckon the modern crop of convertible supercars make magnificent company, whatever the weather. So, armed with the very fast Lamborghini Huracan Spyder and Porsche 911 Turbo S convertible, they headed to Las Vegas, the starting point for a road trip that would encompass four seasons of challenges – and climate – in just two days. Is it possible to simultaneously suffer sunburn and frostbite?
JOINING THE HIGH-MILE CLUB
If you trawl the very saddest corners of the classifieds, it’s possible to find second-hand cars of truly staggering mileage. Obviously, no sane human would ever consider buying such a specimen, which is exactly why Matt, Chris and Rory were instructed to each purchase a used car with at least 480,000 miles on the clock – the equivalent of driving to the moon and back – and report for a show of endurance challenges to deepest Kazakhstan. That’s Kazakhstan, one of the largest, emptiest countries on the planet. The sort of place where breaking down doesn’t end with an annoying hour stuck on the hard shoulder waiting for the RAC, but an annoying 10 days stuck on the hard shoulder being eaten by wolves.
CUBAN MISSILES
For decades, the Caribbean island of Cuba has stood as a motoring time capsule, its streets a throwback to Fifties Americana. But now, at long last, Cuba is finally opening its doors to the western world. And western cars. So, with a generous budget of $6,215.75 (£5,000), Chris and Rory were each tasked with buying a preloved sports car to truly impress the Cubans. They then set out on a road trip from the Bay of Pigs to Havana, during which they somehow got embroiled in a spot of street racing, and history-making.
JOIN OUR CLUBSPORT
The VW Golf Clubsport S is a very fine hatchback. But at $43,510.25 (£35,000), it’s also a very expensive hatchback, especially considering it’s a hatchback with no rear seats. But what if it’s a hatchback capable of outpacing supercars of ten times the price? What then, eh? Rory Reid and Sabine Schmitz took the Golf to Germany’s fearsome Nürburgring circuit, with an ambitious plan to hunt down, and overtake, a million dollars’ worth of exotic supercar. Rory would take care of the complicated ‘counting’ business, while Sabine would get the easy job: driving.
THE SHAMAN, RELUCTANT HERO
If you’re in the market for a posh off-roader, now is a fine time to be alive, with Porsche, Audi, Land Rover, BMW and pretty much every other mainstream manufacturer delighted to relieve you of your cash in exchange for something large and vaguely all-terrain. But Matt LeBlanc reckons there’s another option for the thinking SUV buyer: Russia’s insane, eight-wheeled Avtoros Shaman. However, as he rapidly discovers on an otherwise entirely straightforward Isle Of Man road test, it’s a vehicle that comes with one minor inconvenience: being constantly called upon to rescue locals from peril…
I’LL TAKE YOUR BRAIN TO ANOTHER DIMENSION
A new series sees a new feature installed at the Top Gear test track. Just as Narnia had its wardrobe, the world’s most famous desolate airfield now has its Left-At-Hammerhead: a mysterious portal to a parallel dimension. And it fell to Matt LeBlanc and the new Aston Martin DB11 to give Left-At-Hammerhead its trial run. Where would it lead? And wherever it led, would Chris Harris be conveniently waiting on the other side in a fast Mercedes? (Answers: Montenegro. And: yes, obviously.)
FROM SSANGYONG TO SSANGYACHT
The SsangYong Rodius is widely regarded one of the ugliest cars ever to besmirch British roads. But, according to Rory Reid and literally no one else, it’s an eyesore with hidden potential. Specifically, the potential to shake up the stuffy, staid word of luxury yachting. Lacking the skills to turn people-carrier into superyacht, Rory called in a couple of acquaintances with more boating and mechanical expertise. Unfortunately, these acquaintances were Matt LeBlanc and Chris Harris.
ALFA BET
After years in the doldrums, Alfa Romeo looks to finally have rediscovered its long-lost mojo in the shape of the new, 500-horsepower Giulia saloon. Chris Harris wanted to know whether Italy’s answer to the BMW M3 lived up to its on-paper promise. Rory Reid wanted to know if the combination of Chris’s driving talent and the Giulia’s firepower could achieve in real life a driving stunt generally only attempted with the help of CGI. Everyone learned a lesson that day. And that lesson was ‘always make sure you have comprehensive damage cover.’
ARCADE FIREPOWER
Sure, your thousand-horsepower Ferraris might be very exciting to drive around a large, empty circuit, but let’s be honest: they’re frankly overpowered for real world driving. And by ‘real world driving’ we of course mean ‘picking up dots in a massive maze constructed of shipping containers’. Cue what we’re snappily calling the Top Gear Maze-Based Arcade Game Recreation Challenge. Rory Reid reckoned the perfect car for the job was the tiny, perky little Renault Twingo GT. Top Gear’s resident ghosts – otherwise known as Sabine Schmitz and Chris Harris – had other ideas. Game on!
–DEVIN JOHNSON
Great info, very well explained and great photos. Wished I read it before attempting my rebuild and losing one of those little ballbearings! 🙂
–Nigel Webb
Xabia, Alicante, Spain
BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT– California: Firearm and Hunting Legislation for 2017
Friday, February 17, marked the deadline for bill introductions in California. A number of firearm- and hunting-related bills have been introduced. Below is a review of what is to come this session. There are also a number of bills we are actively monitoring that could become problematic as the session progresses and amendments are made. It’s important for gun owners and Second Amendment supporters to stay diligent and engaged.
Bills to SUPPORT:
AB 521, sponsored by Assembly Member Jim Frazier (D), would delete the current fee for a resident elk tag and would instead set the fee at the average price of the fees required for resident elk tags issued by specified western states
AB 757, “shall-issue” bill, sponsored by Assembly Member Melissa Melendez (R), would redefine “good cause” to include self-defense, defending the life of another, or preventing crime in which human life is threatened, and would provide procedural guidelines to the issuing authority on determining the presence or absence of “good cause.”
AB 986, sponsored by James Gallagher (R), would lower hunting fees by 25% for a person who is a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States, was honorably discharged, and is a resident of California.
SB 710, sponsored by Senator Joel Anderson (R), would authorize the lawful possession and use of firearm sound suppressors while hunting.
Bills to OPPOSE:
AB 424, sponsored by NRA-PVF “F” rated Assembly Member Kevin McCarty (D), would delete the authority of a school district superintendent, his or her designee, or equivalent school authority to provide written permission for a person to possess a firearm within a school zone.
AB 1525, sponsored by NRA-PVF “F” rated Assembly Member Catherine Baker (R), would require more information warning the purchasers of the risks of firearms and the laws regulating firearms to be included in the warnings on the packaging of firearms and descriptive materials that accompany firearms, on the premises of a licensed dealer, and in the instructional manual developed by the California Department of Justice (DOJ).
SB 464, sponsored by NRA-PVF “F” rated Senator Jerry Hill (D), would add stricter and burdensome storage and security requirements of all firearms of a licensed firearm dealers on top of the already strict standards.
SB 497, sponsored by NRA-PVF “D” rated Senator Anthony Portantino (D), would expand the existing one handgun a month law to include ALL guns, including those acquired through a private party transfer. Governor Brown vetoed similar legislation in 2016.
Please check your email and www.NRAILA.org for legislative and legal updates.
SO WHAT’S NEXT— Our mantra this year is slowing down and taking it easy. A brother is about to publish a book on the topic. He’s a chiropractor and has dealt with patients for 25 years. “They’re freaking out,” Dr. Hamster said.
It comes down to some basic elements, but one is to remove bullshit from your life. Turn your cell phone off for half a day. Don’t get up in the morning with the television on and if you have lots of shit, don’t buy more.
I enjoyed scouring antique stores looking for cool shit. Now, I take shit to antique shops and give it to them. Fuck it. If you have 50 plants in the back yard, eliminate half of them. I know, it’s easier said than done.
Yesterday a brother called and told me to buy Paisano Publications (Easyriders Magazine group), quick, such a deal. What the fuck would that do to my life?
It’s all fascinating. So, here are the Doctor’s recommendations for a calmer/healthier life: Slow down; meditate, drink water, eat good food, excercise and get plenty of rest. Did I miss anything?
Just come to Bikernet once a week and check the action, the tech, the stories and features. It’s all good for the soul. And…
Ride Free Forever,
